Yankees fans gearing up for a nostalgic day at the ballpark this August just got hit with a curveball: Derek Jeter won’t be there.
The five-time World Series champion and 2000 Fall Classic MVP is skipping this year’s Old Timers’ Day on August 9, despite the fact that the 2000 Yankees championship team — the one that beat the crosstown Mets — will be honored. And not everyone is taking the news lightly.
Boomer Esiason Rips Jeter’s Absence
Longtime New York radio host Boomer Esiason didn’t mince words during his show on Tuesday. After the Yankees released the official Old Timers’ Day lineup — which includes legends like Mariano Rivera, Joe Torre, Ron Guidry, and Andy Pettitte — Esiason lit into Jeter for not making the effort.
“To me, it’s a little bit insulting, I think,” Esiason said on the air. “You are one of the great players in the team’s history… The fans adore you; they love you every time.”
He added that Jeter has built a reputation as a “very good steward of the game” and someone who has always respected the franchise’s legacy, which makes his absence sting even more.
Co-host Gregg Giannotti agreed, pointing out that Jeter skipping this particular event — one specifically honoring a team he led to a title — feels like a missed opportunity. Neither host expects him to show up every year, but “at least when they are celebrating one of your teams,” Esiason emphasized.
Jeter’s Stance on Playing Still Stands
Jeter hasn’t remained completely disconnected from Old Timers’ Day in the past. He attended the last two iterations of the event, which didn’t include a game component. However, Jeter has publicly stated that he won’t participate in any exhibition games, whether baseball or softball. That may be a sticking point with this year’s format, which will bring back the on-field mini-game tradition lasting a few innings.
Regardless, fans and media alike were hoping Jeter would still show up for the ceremony — especially for a team celebration that highlights one of the most iconic chapters of his Hall of Fame career.
Also absent this year? Alex Rodriguez, who played a major role in the Yankees’ 2009 championship team, continues to be a polarizing figure among fans and former teammates.
For now, the Bronx faithful will get to cheer for some familiar faces on August 9. But without No. 2 in the building, there will be a noticeable void. Whether it’s scheduling, personal preference, or a deeper decision behind the scenes, one thing’s for sure: Yankees fans don’t forget. And neither does New York sports radio.
